Summer Travel

By Brian Hartman, #866 Scottsdale Police Department Crime Prevention Officer, Via Linda District

The hot weather is fast-approaching and that means many of us will be heading for the hills…or mountains, more likely. Wherever your summer travels take you, please remember the following tips to keep you and your family safe:

1. Make sure that your home appears lived in. Put your lights on a timer and keep your blinds and curtains closed. Have a neighbor pick up your mail and newspapers. Make sure that your lawn is maintained while you are away. 2. Make a list of credit card numbers and phone numbers for the card companies just in case you lose one. Let your credit card companies know that you are leaving so that the purchases that you make while on vacation are not flagged as fraudulent. 3. Consider leaving your tablets and laptops at home. Trust me,

I understand how convenient those items are when traveling with children, but it is one more expensive item that could be lost or stolen. Travel as lightly as possible. Cash, credit cards, passports, and cell phones can be carried in fanny packs or other totes…just make sure that the strap is made of material that is not easily broken and/or cut. If you aren’t fashionable enough to wear a fanny pack, place your wallet

in your front pocket instead of your back pocket. 4. Never leave your bags and belongings unattended. Not only does leaving your baggage unattended draw the attention of Airport Security Officers, it also makes an easy target for criminals. Travelers at airports, train stations, bus terminals, boat docks and car rental areas are especially vulnerable due to those being places with a lot of activity and confusion…and often a lot of stress. 5. When checking into a hotel room, make sure to do the obvious. Always lock the door and secure the safety chain.

Check adjoining doors and all windows to ensure they are locked. Also, have at least two exit routes in mind in case of an emergency. Many hotel rooms are equipped with a safe in the room. Use it to keep your valuables safe when you are away from the room. 6. Talk with your family about whom to call and what to do in case they get lost or another emergency arises while you are on vacation. When traveling with kids, bring along an updated photo of each child—in case you become separated from them.

Safe Travels.